Roman Copper Coins: Decode Coin Denominations [Guide]

Understanding Roman currency is crucial for appreciating the intricacies of the Roman economy. Different coin types, including those crafted from copper alloys, circulated throughout the vast empire. A key element in studying these currencies involves familiarizing oneself with coin denominations. The study of copper alloy roman coin denomoinations provides a direct connection to understanding commerce, trade, and even imperial propaganda efforts throughout the Roman world.

Image taken from the YouTube channel MELKOR , from the video titled Value of Roman Coins – Money Denominations of Ancient Rome .

Decoding Roman Copper Coin Denominations: A Guide to Understanding Copper Alloy Roman Coin Denominations

This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of copper alloy Roman coin denominations. We will explore the common copper coins used in the Roman Empire, focusing on how to identify and differentiate them. The primary focus is on "copper alloy roman coin denominations."

Why Focus on Copper Alloy Coins?

While gold and silver Roman coins are often highlighted, copper alloy coins formed the backbone of everyday Roman commerce. Understanding them provides crucial insights into the economic lives of ordinary citizens. Copper alloy coins, comprising bronze, brass (orichalcum), and copper, are more frequently discovered than their precious metal counterparts, making them highly relevant for collectors and historians alike.

Identifying Key Copper Alloy Roman Coin Denominations

Successfully identifying a Roman copper alloy coin denomination involves a combination of factors, including size, weight, imagery, and the metal used. The following provides a breakdown of the most commonly encountered denominations:

The As (and its Fractions)

The as was the original Roman bronze coin, initially cast but later struck. Its weight and size decreased significantly over time.

• Early As: Large, heavy cast bronze coins. Easily recognizable by their size. Look for the prow of a ship on the reverse.
  • Weight: Originally around 270 grams (1 Roman pound), later reduced.
  • Key Features: Distinctive cast appearance.
• Later As: Smaller, struck coins. Typically made of bronze or orichalcum (brass).
  • Weight: Significantly lighter than the cast as.
  • Key Features: Struck appearance with clearer details. Often feature portraits of emperors.

Fractions of the As: The as was further divided into smaller denominations:

• Semis: Half an as. Often identifiable by the letter ‘S’ on the coin.
• Quadrans: Quarter of an as. Often identifiable by three pellets (dots).

The Dupondius

The dupondius was worth two asses. It was typically made of orichalcum during the Roman Empire, giving it a distinctive golden-yellow appearance.

• Material: Primarily orichalcum (brass).
• Key Features: Golden-yellow color when well-preserved. Crowned with a radiate crown when portraying an Emperor. Usually larger than the as.

The Sestertius

The sestertius was originally a silver coin but later became a large brass coin, typically made of orichalcum. It was worth four asses.

• Material: Primarily orichalcum (brass) during the Imperial period.
• Key Features: Large size, detailed imagery, and often well-preserved. One of the most impressive and collectible Roman copper alloy coins. Emperors are usually portrayed with radiate crown on the coin.
• Value: 1/4 Denarius.

The Follis

The follis was a relatively large bronze coin introduced in the late 3rd century AD during the monetary reforms of Diocletian.

• Key Features: Often silvered when first minted, though this silvering is usually worn off. Typically features a portrait of the emperor on the obverse and allegorical figures or military scenes on the reverse.

Factors Influencing Identification

Several factors can complicate the identification of copper alloy roman coin denominations:

• Wear and Corrosion: Over time, coins can become worn and corroded, obscuring details and making identification difficult.
• Variations in Weight and Size: The weight and size of coins varied over time and between different mints, making these factors less reliable for precise identification unless combined with other characteristics.
• Mint Marks: Mint marks, small letters or symbols indicating the city where the coin was minted, can aid in identification but require specialized knowledge.
• Imagery: Understanding common Roman iconography, such as portraits of emperors, deities, and allegorical figures, is crucial for identifying coins.
• Metal Composition: While the general metal used can be helpful, variations in alloy composition existed.

Using Coin Identification Guides and Resources

Numerous resources are available to assist in identifying Roman copper alloy coins:

• Online Databases: Websites like Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE) provide comprehensive catalogues and images of Roman coins.
• Printed Catalogues: Standard reference books, such as Roman Imperial Coinage (RIC), offer detailed descriptions and classifications.
• Coin Collecting Forums: Online communities can provide valuable assistance and expertise in identifying coins.

A Practical Example: Identifying a Dupondius

Let’s say you have a copper alloy coin with the following characteristics:

1. Color: It has a distinct golden-yellow color.
2. Size: It is larger than a modern US quarter.
3. Imagery: It features a portrait of an Emperor with a radiate crown.
4. Metal: Upon close inspection, the metal appears to be brass (orichalcum).

Based on these characteristics, it’s highly likely that the coin is a dupondius. Comparing the imagery to online resources and catalogues can further confirm the identification and help determine the specific emperor and mint.

Table of Common Copper Alloy Roman Coin Denominations

So, hopefully, you’ve got a better grasp of copper alloy roman coin denomoinations now! Go forth and happy collecting, or at least impress your friends with your newfound numismatic knowledge!